How the Revolving Loan Program Helped the Original Willie’s Bar-B-Q Expand Their Restaurant

Throughout South Texas, tasty food can be found, but only a few places have achieved such recognition that Texas Monthly can declare to be one of the best in the world! The Original Willie’s Bar-B-Q has been serving mouth-watering food to residents throughout Texas for over 20 years with nonstop praise and recognition. With such a high demand for their delicious chicken, ribs, fajitas and notable brisket, it was only a matter of time before this landmark needed to expand.

Working with the Alamo EDC

With a steady following, lunchtime became packed and space was limited. The best barbeque place in South Texas needed more eating space, not to mention a larger parking area. Willie Gonzalez, Jr. looked into the Alamo Economic Development Corporation Revolving Loan Program to help him achieve this expansion.

The program is just one of the many incentives from the Alamo EDC and the city that’s perfect for businesses looking to find low-cost alternative financing options in Alamo. It provides low interest loans for commercial activities such as renovations, repairs, construction, equipment purchases and real estate. The Revolving Loan Program can also be used for startup operating costs and working capital.

In order to apply for this loan, business owners must:

Fill out a loan application

Submit a business plan with the loan application (business plans must include a budget for the use of funds)

Submission of all documents to the Alamo EDC via mail or hand delivery

If eligible, the loan application will be presented to the Loan Review Committee

Committee recommendation will be presented to the EDC Board for final approval

The applicant will be notified of the Board’s decision and loan specific terms, if applicable

Moving Forward

After filling out a loan application with the submission of their business plan and all necessary documents, the Alamo EDC and Loan Review Committee decided that the Original Willie’s Bar-B-Q was the perfect business to receive funding. With plans to expand, doubling in size and adding more space for dining and parking, the loan helped pay for 65% of the total expansion, making it easier for guests to move around, park and enjoy delicious meals. Completed this past September, everyone across the United States can see how the Alamo EDC helped this favorite location grow into further success.

Local, Home-Grown Success

First opening its doors in 1992 in Alamo, the Original Willie’s Bar-B-Q has grown into a South Texas staple that has Winter Texans, locals and people from across the world coming to get a taste of some delicious barbeque. With a bigger addition to the restaurant, residents and visitors alike can enjoy what Texas Monthly has raved about. But how did the Original Willie’s Bar-B-Q find such success in Alamo? This city has emerged as one of the most vibrant and ecotourism-friendly attractions in South Texas.

Choosing Alamo

Location plays a significant role in how businesses large and small find success. With so much growth in the Rio Grande Valley, places like Alamo are expanding and finding new ways to generate revenue. Businesses in Alamo are more affordable and you’ll be just minutes away from the populations of McAllen, Edinburg and Pharr.

Alamo has a relatively low cost of living, low utilities, low transport costs, an affordable abundance of land, a business-friendly government and few regulations. All of these are essential for growing and expanding your business.

Let’s Talk Business

The Alamo EDC is here to help improve your business outlook and encourage the local commercial environment. With Alamo’s close proximity to McAllen, Edinburg and Mission, you can reap the benefits of success without heavy taxation. For more information about how the Revolving Loan Program can help your business, contact the Alamo EDC at 956.787.6622.